The Nature and Dynamics of Domestic Violence

A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence REVISED SEPTEMBER 2006 Mthe missouriC coalitionDSV against domestic & sexua aviole nce Mthe missouriC coalitionDSV against domestic & sexua aviole nce

718 east capitol jefferson city, missouri 65101 (573) 634-4161 (573) 636-3728 fax [email protected] www.mocadsv.org

Funding for this publication was provided in part by a federal Family Violence Prevention and Services Act grant; the Missouri Department of Social Services; and U.S. Department of Justice Grant No. 2004-DW-AX-0032.

The women and children pictured in this publication are models and are used for illustrative purposes only. CONTENTS

A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING THE DYNAMICS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 1 ◗ Four types of abuse ◗ The relationship between violence and other tactics of control ◗ Domestic violence victims employ a variety of survival strategies ◗ Dilemmas in leaving an abusive relationship ◗ The relationship between poverty and domestic violence ◗ Considerations for working with diverse backgrounds and underserved populations

MEN WHO BATTER, THEIR SELECTIVE BEHAVIORS AND SOCIETAL INFLUENCES 12 ◗ Attitudes and behaviors of men who batter ◗ Power and control wheel ◗ How abusers use power and control ◗ Factors for changing batterers’ behavior

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ITS COMPLEX EFFECTS ON CHILDREN AND MOTHERS 19 ◗ The effects associated with witnessing domestic violence ◗ Not all advocates are mandated reporters

EMPOWERMENT AND ADVOCACY FOR SURVIVORS 23 ◗ The LIFE process of assisting women victimized by domestic violence ◗ Empowerment is the core of advocacy ◗ A guide to working with women in crisis ◗ Personalized safety plan

i FUNDAMENTAL ISSUES RELATED TO JUSTICE SYSTEM REMEDIES 31 ◗ Procedure for obtaining an Adult Order of Protection ◗ Relief available with protection orders ◗ Missouri Adult Abuse Act at a glance ◗ Domestic violence assault crimes

COLLABORATION: EXPANDING SERVICES WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS 38

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 40

THE MISSION AND PURPOSE OF MCADSV 43

ii A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 1

A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING THE DYNAMICS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

eople often think of domestic violence only in terms of the black eyes and Pbruises that can be seen. In reality, domestic violence is a pattern of assaultive and coercive behaviors that abusive men use to control their intimate partners. As adaptive and resilient as they are, women who have been battered neverthe- less face a daunting number of barriers to escaping the violence. In addition to the very real threat of harm or death to themselves or their children, victims must contend with the accompanying financial and emotional hardship. They also often weigh cultural and religious values that emphasize DEFINITION keeping families intact and respond to the violence in spite Domestic violence is a pattern of justice and social service sys- KEY POINT of assaultive and coercive tems that don’t always provide behaviors that adults or adequate safety and support. adolescents use against their People who have never current or former intimate partners. experienced abuse often find Domestic violence occurs in intimate it difficult to imagine why relationships where the perpetrator women don’t leave and how and the victim are currently or the abuse can continue for previously have been dating, years. Relationships almost living together, married or divorced. They might have never start out abusive. It is children in common or not. important to remember that love and intimacy precede the abuse, which can make it difficult to break away. Abusive relationships are not violent all the time. There are periods when a woman is reminded why she fell in love with her partner. Abusers effectively weave together intimacy and abuse to control their partners. Women who have been battered sometimes express confusion about the recurring nature of the violence they experience in their relationship. It MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 2 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

NOTEWORTHY seems to them to be unpredictable and impulsive. Domestic violence, however, is neither random nor haphazard. It is a About the use complex pattern of increasingly frequent and harmful physi- of pronouns in cal, sexual, psychological and other abusive behaviors used to this publication control the victim. The abuser’s tactics are devised and carried The greatest single out precisely to control her. common denominator about victims of DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IS UNLIKE OTHER CRIME domestic violence is the fact that the While domestic violence has certain similarities to other overwhelming majority forms of family violence—such as child abuse, child-to-parent are women. violence, sibling violence or elder abuse—it has certain unique According to the most comprehensive national characteristics that make it distinct. Domestic violence distorts study by the U.S. what is supposed to be a partnership based on mutual respect. Department of Justice on family violence, the Neither partner has a legitimate role in disciplining or controlling majority of domestic violence victims are the other. When domestic violence permeates a relationship, the women. Females are 84 abuser and victim no longer share equal rights and responsibili- percent of spouse abuse victims and 86 ties within the partnership. percent of victims at the hands of a SAFETY SHOULD BE PARAMOUNT boyfriend or girlfriend. The study also found Safety must be the fundamental guiding principle in any and that men are responsi- all efforts to assist those escaping the violence and control of their ble for the vast majority of these attacks—about intimate partners. All contact and interventions with a survivor 75 percent.1 must account for the risks she faces when she seeks help. The real- And, women experience more chronic and injuri- ity for women victimized by domestic violence is that the risk of ous physical assaults danger is greater when they leave their abusive relationships. by intimate partners than do men.2 A woman who has been battered further risks the safety of That’s why feminine herself and her children through the process of disclosing abuse, pronouns are used in separating from a batterer, seeking child support or reporting her this publication when referring to adult batterer’s abuse of her children. There will be unintended conse- victims and masculine quences for a woman if interventions are not based on safety and pronouns are used when referring to her assessment of her situation. perpetrators of domestic violence. This should EMPOWERING SUPPORT IS ESSENTIAL not detract from the understanding that, The woman experiencing domestic violence is the expert in some instances, the perpetrator might on the violence in her life. She has the best sense if her bat- be female while the terer will carry through on his threats if she tells her story, goes victim is male or of the same gender. to work or pursues child support. Anyone seeking to help a 1 Durose, M., et al. (2005). Family victim of domestic violence must encourage and respect the violence statistics: Including statistics on strangers and choices she makes. This reinforces her autonomy and can acquaintances. Washington,DC: U.S. Department of Justice. empower her with the knowledge that she can survive outside 2 Tjaden, P., & Thoennes, N. (2000). of her abusive relationship. Full report of the prevalence, inci- dence, and consequences of violence against women. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice. 9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 3

In a non-emergency situation, one of the primary reasons a survivor tells you her story is to seek your services, gather infor- ou cannot mation and resources, investigate her options and be encouraged emerge a whole by a non-judgmental, helpful person. The responsibilities of any- Yhuman being one who works with women victimized by domestic violence can ‘when you escape be summarized as follows: someone who ◗ Help her plan for future safety. constantly beats ◗ Listen to her and acknowledge her experiences. you and berates you ◗ Affirm the injustice of the violence against her. physically, emotionally ◗ Respect her autonomy. and spiritually . . . ◗ Promote her access to community services. until that searing ◗ Respect and safeguard her confidentiality. of the soul has been THE ROLE OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROGRAMS attended to. . . . There is something There are more than 100 domestic violence shelters and sup- that happens to the port programs throughout Missouri, however, fewer than half of psyche. The wholeness the state’s 114 counties have emergency shelters. Consequently, of the individual must domestic violence program staff are accustomed to using creative be looked at. . . . and inventive approaches to providing services in a variety of They must begin to settings. Most women don’t need emergency shelter, but they do understand what has need someone to talk to beyond office hours. Almost all can ben- happened to them, efit from the common ground found in a support group. and why. The majority of domestic violence shelters and service — SURVIVOR OF providers have toll-free numbers that allow them to serve multi- DOMESTIC’ VIOLENCE ple counties so they can help create safety plans, offer support, and provide court advocacy and other resource information— even from a distance. Some programs have outreach staff who can work with victims to make plans for obtaining services in their communities. When working to meet the needs of women and their children, there is more to be gained by working together than anyone can do by working alone. YOUR ROLE IS EQUALLY VITAL The challenge for all of us is to do what we can do. We can meet the challenge with hope. For the truth is that people commit domestic violence, and people can stop it. Your efforts have the potential to save lives, to stop the violence, and to create new opportunities for families living in fear and danger. By its very nature, your work to address domestic violence is an ethical endeavor to further social justice. MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 4 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

RELEVANT DATA FOUR TYPES OF ABUSE The people Abuse can take on many forms. Some types are more subtle harmed by than others and might never be seen or felt by anyone other than domestic violence the woman experiencing the abuse. The abuser uses a combina- ◗ About one in four tion of tactics that work to control the victim. The abuse also usu- women will experience domestic violence in her ally increases in frequency and severity over time. lifetime. —Tjaden, P., & Thonennes, N. PHYSICAL ABUSE (2000). Extent, nature and consequences of intimate partner Physical abuse is easier to recognize and understand than violence: Findings from the National Violence Against Women other types of abuse. It can be indicated when the batterer: Survey. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice. ◗ Scratches, bites, grabs or spits at a current or former intimate partner. ◗ Having a verbally ◗ abusive partner was the Shakes, shoves, pushes, restrains or throws her. variable most likely to ◗ Twists, slaps, punches, strangles or burns the victim. predict that a woman ◗ Throws objects at her. would be victimized by an intimate partner. ◗ Subjects her to reckless driving. —Ibid. ◗ Locks her in or out of the house. ◗ In 1998, women ◗ Refuses to help when she’s sick, injured or pregnant, experienced an or withholds medication or treatment. estimated 876,340 ◗ Withholds food as punishment. rape, sexual assault, aggravated assault, ◗ Abuses her at mealtime, which disrupts eating patterns simple assault and and can result in malnutrition. robbery victimizations at ◗ Abuses her at night, which disrupts sleeping patterns the hands of an intimate or former and can result in sleep deprivation. intimate partner, down ◗ Attacks her with weapons or kills her. from 1.1 million in 1993. SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND ABUSE —Rennison, C. M., & Welchans, S. (2000). Intimate partner violence. Sexual violence and abuse can be extraordinarily difficult for Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice. victims to talk about because of the ways in which this type of ◗ The percentage of violence often is perpetrated. Sexual violence or abuse can be female murder victims indicated when the batterer: killed by intimate or former partners has ◗ Is jealously angry and assumes she will have sex with anyone. remained at about ◗ Withholds sex and affection as punishment. 30 percent since 1976. ◗ —Ibid. Calls her sexual names. ◗ Pressures her to have sex when she doesn’t want to. ◗ In 2001, 20 percent ◗ of violent crime against Insists that his partner dress in a more sexual way than she wants. women was intimate ◗ Coerces sex by manipulation or threats. partner violence, com- ◗ Physically forces sex or is sexually violent. pared to 3 percent of violent crime against ◗ Coerces her into sexual acts that she is uncomfortable with, men. such as sex with a third party, physically painful sex, sexual — Rennison, C. M. (2003). activity she finds offensive or verbal degradation during sex. Intimate Partner Violence, 1993- 2001. Washington, DC: U.S. ◗ Inflicts injuries that are sex-specific. Department of Justice. ◗ Denies the victim contraception or protection against sexually transmitted diseases. 9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 5

PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE It is the abuser’s use of physical and sexual force or threats hat really got that gives power to his psychologically abusive acts. Psycho- to me was the logical abuse becomes an effective weapon in controlling a W way that he victim, because she knows through experience that her abuser ‘abused me. You know, will at times back up the threats or taunts with physical assaults. he would not leave Psychological abuse can be indicated when the batterer: me alone until we had ◗ Breaks promises, doesn’t follow through on agreements sex. He was like that. or doesn’t take a fair share of responsibility. I would be there, tears ◗ Verbally attacks and humiliates his partner in private or public. rolling out of my eyes ◗ Attacks her vulnerabilities, such as her language abilities, from our fighting, and educational level, skills as a parent, religious and cultural beliefs or physical appearance. him hitting me, and ◗ Plays mind games, such as when he denies requests he has he would want to made previously or when he undercuts her sense of reality. have sex. But I had ◗ Forces her to do degrading things. no choice, because ◗ Ignores her feelings. if I didn’t have sex ◗ Withholds approval or affection as punishment. with him, well, what ◗ Regularly threatens to leave or tells his partner to leave. would happen to ◗ Harasses her about affairs he imagines her to be having. ◗ Stalks her. me next? Right after ◗ Always claims to be right. the fights is when ◗ Is unfaithful after committing to monogamy. he wanted it, and I couldn’t stand it. ECONOMIC ABUSE — SURVIVOR OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE’ Economic abuse can be indicated when the batterer: ◗ Controls all the money. ◗ Doesn’t let her work outside the home or sabotages her attempts to work or go to school. ◗ Refuses to work and makes her support the family. ◗ Ruins her credit rating.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VIOLENCE AND OTHER TACTICS OF CONTROL

Domestic violence is not an isolated, individual event but rather a pattern of repeated behaviors. Assaults are repeated against the same victim by the same perpetrator. These assaults occur in different forms, including physical, sexual, psychological and economic. While physical assaults might occur infrequently, other parts of the pattern can occur daily. The use of these other tactics is effective because one battering episode builds on past MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 6 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

episodes and sets the stage for future episodes. All tactics of the here were signs pattern interact and have profound effects on the victims. all along: He Examples of commonly used control tactics include: T was very jealous and very possessive, ISOLATING THE VICTIM ‘ ◗ Initially, a batterer might cut off the victim from supportive rela- but he was also very, tionships with the claims of “loving you so much” and “wanting very, charming. He to be with you all the time.” brought me roses and ◗ The intent is to control her time and isolate her from her sup- roses and diamond port system of family and friends who might question his actions. For example, he might refuse to have telephone service rings, and all kinds or reliable transportation, monitor her e-mail, or make the fam- of stuff. He treated ily change residences frequently. me like a queen for ◗ He might constantly criticize her family and friends or harass her so much that it is easier for her to cut off contact with years until we bought them. He might make it impossible for her to have contact with this house and moved others by using coercion, threats or force. in together. ◗ Some victims believe what their abusers say because they — SURVIVOR OF are so isolated they have no access to information that might DOMESTIC’ VIOLENCE contradict him. USING THE CHILDREN ◗ The batterer might punish the children as a way to hurt her. ◗ He might sexually abuse the children or force them to watch the abuse of the victim. ◗ He might use the children to spy or report on her activities. ◗ He might threaten to kidnap or kill the children if his partner leaves him. ◗ He could gain legal custody, just take the children, or use custody and visitation arrangements to harass or harm her. DAMAGING RELATIONSHIPS ◗ The abuser might discredit her relationships with others in the community, such as employers, clergy, friends and neighbors, by spreading rumors or distorted information. For example, he might tell others she is crazy or a liar or send messages from her e-mail address to alienate her from friends and family. ATTACKING PROPERTY AND PETS ◗ The abuser might hit the wall next to where the victim is standing or throw objects at her. He might pound the table next to her or break her favorite possessions. He might say: “Look what you made me do” or “You’ll be next.” ◗ The abuser might harm pets to hurt and intimidate her. STALKING PARTNER OR EX-PARTNER ◗ The abuser might follow, threaten, harass and terrify his partner or ex-partner, especially after she has left or separated. ◗ The abuser might monitor her whereabouts, daily activities, phone conversations or e-mail to prove to her that she cannot conceal anything from him. 9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 7

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS EMPLOY was threatened A VARIETY OF SURVIVAL STRATEGIES by one of IDale’s friends. Women who have been battered are survivors. Asking them He threatened to why they don’t leave an abusive relationship ignores the complex ‘ burn my house down set of factors they must weigh to decide how best to protect and kill me and kill themselves and their children. Implying that it is the responsibil- my father-in-law and ity of the victim to end the violence blames her for the abuse and burn down his trailer. does not hold the batterer accountable for his crimes. I reported this to the FOR SOME VICTIMS, STAYING MAY BE SAFER police. In two weeks, Not all women want to leave the relationship. They want my home was burned the violence to stop. There are times when it may be safer for a down. When I returned woman and her children to stay. Quite simply, a woman who has to the police station, been battered might be told she will be killed, or her children will they could find be killed, if she leaves or refuses to return. Past violence has nothing about my taught her that his threats often translate into action. Leaving also previous report. might harm her children if he gets custody or visitation. If she is Absolutely nothing. still in the relationship, she can monitor his interactions with the And I know I was children. Indeed, the decision to leave an abusive relationship is there. I suppose not as straightforward as it might seem. The table on page 8 out- somehow they got lines some of the crucial factors a victim must consider, especially to the police. if she has children. — SURVIVOR OF DOMESTIC’ VIOLENCE WOMEN WHO HAVE BEEN BATTERED LEAVE ALL THE TIME It is important to remember that women do escape the violence in their lives. Friends, family and a network of service providers within a supportive community can be instrumental for a survivor who chooses to make the overwhelmingly difficult decision to uproot her life. What at first might appear to an outsider to be self-defeat- ing behavior on the part of the victim, such as being afraid to seek the services of a program for victims of domestic violence or wanting to return to the abuser in spite of severe violence, in fact might be normal reactions to significantly frightening situations. A victim uses different strategies to cope with and resist abuse. These strategies might appear to be the result of passivity or submission, when in reality she has learned that these are sometimes-successful, temporary means of stopping the violence. MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 8 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

DILEMMAS IN LEAVING AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP

Leaving a violent relationship is not a simple matter.There are many factors that must be weighed carefully, because only the abuser truly can stop the violence.

PHYSICAL POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE STAYS POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE LEAVES ◗ Physical injury. He can continue to hit and injure her. ◗ Physical injury. He might continue to injure her. He also might be inclined to escalate the violence after she leaves. ◗ Death. He might kill her or the children. ◗ Death. Leaving doesn’t ensure that he won’t find her, and it might increase the chance she or the children will be killed. ◗ STDs/HIV. She might have no choice regarding safe-sex ◗ STDs/HIV. Unsafe behavior might continue. He might practices. He might sexually assault her. sexually assault her. CHILDREN POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE STAYS POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE LEAVES ◗ Physical injury or psychological harm. Children can ◗ Physical injury or psychological harm. Children can witness violence, be targets themselves or be hurt trying witness violence, be targets themselves or be hurt trying to protect others. to protect others. They might be at greater risk during ◗ Loss of children. He could make false allegations of visitation. child neglect or abuse about her. Failure-to-protect ◗ Loss of children. He could legally gain custody or just arguments could be used to remove children or terminate take the children. He could make false allegations of child parental rights. neglect or abuse. FINANCIAL POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE STAYS POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE LEAVES ◗ Standard of living. He might control the money and give ◗ Standard of living. She might now have to live on less her little to live on. He could lose or quit his job. He might money, relying solely on her own income. She might have make her lose or quit her job. to move out of her home and community. ◗ Loss of income/job. He could keep her from working or ◗ Loss of income/job. She might have to quit her job and limit how much she works. He might sabotage her efforts raise her children as a single parent. He might sabotage to find a job or her success in a job or training program. her efforts to find a job or succeed in a training program. ◗ Loss of housing. She could be evicted because of ◗ Loss of housing. She might have to move out, leave town property damage he has done. or go into hiding. She might lose her home in a divorce. ◗ Loss of or damage to possessions. He might destroy ◗ Loss of or damage to possessions. He might destroy things of importance or value to her. things of importance or value to her. She might have to leave things behind if she flees. FAMILY AND FRIENDS POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE STAYS POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE LEAVES ◗ Physical injury. He might threaten or injure family or ◗ Physical injury. He might threaten or injure family or friends, particularly if they try to offer assistance. friends, particularly if they try to offer assistance. ◗ Loss of support. They might want her to leave and might ◗ Loss of support. They might not want her to leave and stop supporting her if she stays. They might be afraid of might stop supporting her. him or not like him. He might keep her isolated from them. PSYCHOLOGICAL POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE STAYS POSSIBLE RISKS IF SHE LEAVES ◗ Psychological harm. Verbal, emotional and physical ◗ Psychological harm. He might have continued access to attacks will continue to affect her. her, particularly if they have children in common. ◗ Substance abuse. She might use drugs or alcohol to help ◗ Substance abuse. She might use drugs or alcohol to help her cope with the emotional and physical pain. her cope with her new situation and past abuse. ◗ Suicide. He might threaten or commit suicide. ◗ Suicide. He might threaten or commit suicide.

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 9

RELEVANT DATA THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POVERTY AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Poverty Domestic violence permeates all social groups defined by and intimate race, ethnicity and economic circumstances, yet it is clear that partner violence the combined experience of poverty and violence raises par- ◗ Women living in ticularly difficult issues for women and their children. Women disadvantaged neighborhoods were living in poverty experience violence by their partners at more than twice as higher rates partially because they have fewer options. Access likely to be the victims of intimate violence to independent economic resources, including public assis- compared with women tance, is vital to an abused woman’s decision making and in more advantaged neighborhoods. safety planning. —Benson, M. L., & Fox, G. L. The high rates of domestic violence in the lives of impov- (2004). When violence hits home: How economics and neighborhood erished women, along with higher rates of physical and men- play a role. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice. tal health problems, mean that economically disadvantaged women are likely to have more, and more complex, needs than ◗ Women in disadvantaged neighborhoods those who have more resources. It is important to note that were more likely to be women who experience violence and poverty are astound- victimized repeatedly or to be injured by their ingly resilient and use the resources they do have strategically. domestic partners than Each woman has her own experience and is affected by the were women who lived in more advantaged violence in her life in different ways and to different degrees. neighborhoods. Economic independence and employment are central con- —Ibid. siderations in women’s safety. For a woman with limited resources, obtaining safe and affordable housing is often difficult. Each victim faces unique risks and thus has unique needs for safety and self-sufficiency. In many instances, determining what a particular woman needs is as simple as asking her. BARRIERS TO LEAVING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE Not all women who have experienced domestic violence have problems that interfere with their taking steps toward self-sufficiency. Other women, however, do have lingering safety concerns or trauma that interferes with job training or employment. For a significant number, domestic violence is a major “welfare-to-work” barrier. Abusers often feel threatened by a partner’s efforts to become more financially independent, and they actively interfere with or sabotage job training, education or employment activities.

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 10 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

RELEVANT DATA CONSIDERATIONS FOR WORKING WITH DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS AND The extent of intimate UNDERSERVED POPULATIONS partner violence A woman of color faces particular barriers, because she ◗ Women living often has to overcome not only victim-blaming attitudes but with female partners experience less intimate also racial stereotypes. She might have encountered racism in partner violence than women living with male the criminal justice and social service systems and might be intimate partners. Men reluctant to turn to those systems for help. As a result, she might living with male intimate partners experience not have been believed or treated fairly in the past. It is never more violence than easy for a woman to tell others what is happening to her. For a do men who live with female intimate woman of color, there is often an added pressure to remain partners. silent rather than potentially reinforce negative perceptions of —Tjaden, P., & Thonennes, N. (2000). Extent, nature and her community by discussing domestic violence. In some com- consequences of intimate partner violence: Findings from the munities of color, religion is particularly important to a sense of National Violence Against Women Survey. Washington, DC: U.S. identity and belonging. Some African American, Latino and Department of Justice. Asian American communities, for example, might also have ◗ Rates of intimate strong religious or cultural traditions that can add to a woman’s partner violence vary significantly among reluctance to leave her abusive marriage. women of diverse racial Women of all races might have strong religious convic- backgrounds. Asian/ Pacific Islander women tions. Family cohesiveness and spiritual community can be and men tend to report positive and strengthening, but for women experiencing lower rates of intimate partner violence than domestic violence, it also can mean that leaving an abusive do people from other relationship includes the risk of losing her family or congrega- minority backgrounds. African American and tion or acting against a deeply held belief. American Indian/Alaska Immigrant or refugee women face extreme difficulty Native women and men report higher rates. escaping domestic violence. Cultural isolation and language —Ibid. barriers can be particularly devastating. Because of experiences in her country of origin, she might have little trust in the justice system. She also might believe that her ability to remain in this country depends on her husband’s immigration status or might erroneously believe that seeking any help will result in her deportation. It is critical that immigrant and refugee women have access to legal services to help them address their particular concerns and legally complex situations. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals who are abused face the same issues that heterosexual women face, plus others unique to their same-sex relationship or sexual orientation. They might have reason to fear mistreatment or alienation if they reveal their sexual orientation to friends,

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 11 family or coworkers. Past incidents of discrimination can make RELEVANT DATA them reluctant to approach service providers. Even when they do seek help, they often find that many traditional services for Intimate abused heterosexual women do not provide support for them. partner violence Women who have a mental illness or physical or commu- and women with nicative disability face additional barriers obtaining social ser- disabilities vices and breaking isolation from their abuser. A woman may ◗ In a study on women be waiting for approval of a disability award to move toward with disabilities, 56 per- financial independence, she may rely on her partner’s health cent reported abuse. Of this group, 74 percent insurance to pay for medications, or she might depend on her reported abuse that was partner for basic daily mobility or communication needs. chronic in nature and 55 percent reported When a woman does try to seek help, she may find that mate- multiple abuse situations in their adult lives. rials may not be available in Braille or that American Sign The abuser was their Language interpreters often are not accessible. Women may male intimate partner 80 percent of the time. not be believed because their limited communicative abilities —Wayne State University (2004). Michigan study on women with lead people to misinterpret what they say or to think that they physical disabilities. Washington, are “slow” and cannot accurately describe their situation. DC: U.S. Department of Justice.

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 12 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

MEN WHO BATTER, THEIR SELECTIVE BEHAVIORS AND SOCIETAL INFLUENCES

omestic violence is not impulsive but purposeful and instrumental. DBatterers can be perfectly agreeable with or conciliatory to police officers, employers, neighbors, co-workers and friends. But batterers don’t use those skills with their intimate partners because they choose not to. Individual men beat individual women to make those women do what they want. The violent man is not “out of control.” He is at work on his own agenda, which is to condition his victim to be what he wants her to be all the POWER & CONTROL time. This is impossible because he constantly changes his demands. The batterer

KEY Domestic violence chooses tactics that work to POINT is purposeful behavior. achieve compliance or control. The batterer’s pattern His behavior is directed at con- of abusive acts is directed at trolling most aspects of his achieving compliance from or control over the victim. partner’s life. Men batter because batter- Tactics that work to control ing works. Domestic violence is the victim are selectively a socially supported behavior, chosen by the batterer. This power affects many learned through observation, aspects of a victim’s life. experience and reinforcement. It is learned through our culture, families, schools and peer groups. Domestic violence is not caused by illness, genetics, substance abuse, stress, the behavior of the victim or problems in the relationship. Domestic violence is a crime, and it should be accorded the same prosecution efforts as any other violent offense. Communities and the justice system have an obligation to reduce the prevalence of domestic violence and hold the perpetrators responsible. Prosecution of offenders can protect the victim from additional acts of violence, reduce children’s exposure and possible injury, deter the abuser from committing further acts of violence, and reinforce a community’s refusal to tolerate domestic abuse. Unless men who batter are truly held accountable, they have little incentive to stop their abusive behaviors. 9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 13

RELEVANT DATA ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS OF MEN WHO BATTER How batterers There is no way to spot a batterer in a crowd. Domestic choose to carry out their abuse violence is not a matter of class, race or socioeconomic status. It is a gender issue. Most batterers are male; however, most men ◗ In three surveys of women experiencing are not batterers. domestic violence, Batterers often share the following characteristics: researchers found that between 37 percent INTIMIDATION AND VIOLENCE and 45 percent of respondents also had ◗ Resolves conflict with intimidation, bullying and violence. been raped by their ◗ Holds her down, restrains her from leaving a room, pushes partners. —Browne, A. (1987). or shoves. When battered women kill. ◗ Uses threats and intimidation as instruments of control or New York: Free Press. abuse. This includes threats to harm physically, to defame, ◗ In 2002, 62.6 percent to embarrass, to restrict freedom, to disclose secrets, to cut off of spousal murders support, to abandon, to kidnap children and to commit suicide. involved a firearm. —Durose, M., et al. (2005). Family violence statistics: Including VERBALLY ABUSIVE statistics on strangers and acquaintances. Washington,DC: ◗ Says things that are meant to be cruel and hurtful. U.S. Department of Justice. ◗ Degrades her, curses her and/or minimizes her ◗ The majority of spouse accomplishments. violence (78.1 percent) ◗ May wake her up to yell at her or not let her go to sleep by and boyfriend/girlfriend yelling at her. violence (64 percent) occurred in the victim’s MINIMIZES ABUSE home. —Ibid. ◗ Redefines a violent incident, for example, by saying, “It wasn’t that bad,”or, “I didn’t hit her that hard; she bruises easily.” ◗ Accuses her of exaggerating the abuse or of being crazy. SUBSTANCE ABUSE ◗ Cites alcohol or drug use as an excuse or explanation for hostile or violent conduct (“That was the booze talking, not me; I got so drunk I was crazy.”). ◗ Forces her to use drugs or alcohol. BREAKS OR STRIKES THINGS IN ANGER ◗ Beats on tables with a fist, throws objects around or near her. ◗ Uses symbolic violence (tearing a wedding photo, marring a face in a photo, etc.). HISTORY OF VIOLENCE ◗ Has battered in prior relationships. ◗ Has previous police encounters for behavioral offenses (threats, stalking, assault, battery). MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 14 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

PROJECTS BLAME e found our ◗ Refuses to take responsibility for his actions. client work, ◗ Blames his partner for his problems to justify the violence. W but when her ◗ Often blames other ethnic groups, coworkers or women in ‘abuser got out of jail, general for his problems. ... he applied to the CRUELTY TO ANIMALS OR CHILDREN court for visitation ◗ Treats children cruelly or is insensitive to their suffering. rights for his daughter. ◗ Treats animals cruelly or is insensitive to their suffering. It turned out that this ◗ Expects children to be capable of doing things far beyond visitation was just one their ability or teases children until they cry. way for him to get in ◗ Forces the children to watch the abuse of the victim closer with her. Even or engages them in the abuse of the victim. when he had the child, EXTREME JEALOUSY he would come over ◗ Becomes jealous of anyone or anything that takes her time and throw rocks at the away from the relationship. window if she didn’t ◗ “If I can’t have you, nobody will.” come out, wanting ◗ Requires her to account for all of her time. ◗ to make sure what Accuses her of flirting or of having affairs. ◗ she was doing while Calls her frequently at work or refuses to let her go to work. he had the child. CONTROLLING BEHAVIOR It wasn’t just about ◗ Makes all the decisions about the house, joint finances, her visiting with his clothing, or where they go and who they can or cannot visit. daughter. He wanted to ◗ Is extremely impatient and might exhibit poor impulse control. Believes his needs and wants should be fulfilled immediately. keep tabs on her.... ◗ Uses money to control her activities, purchases and behavior. Unfortunately, she . . . took him back. ISOLATION The violence is now ◗ Cuts her off from resources. interfering with her ◗ Accuses people who support her of causing trouble. work. We have actually ◗ May not let her use the car, work or go to school. gotten calls from the DR. JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE employer. She is ◗ Has sudden and extreme changes in mood. emotional, it is hard ◗ Is alternately loving and abusive. to get her to focus on ◗ Can behave explosively. her work, she calls in RAPE OR USE OF FORCE IN SEX sick. . . . She tells me ◗ Has no concern about whether she wants to have sex. that she cannot come ◗ Uses sulking, anger, harassment or coercion to manipulate to work with her black her into compliance with sexual demands. eyes and bruises. ◗ Forces her to to have sex while she is sleeping or demands — JOB PLACEMENT COUNSELOR sex when she is ill, injured after a beating or soon after ’ childbirth.

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 15

SPIRITUAL AND RELIGIOUS ABUSE RELEVANT DATA ◗ Misuses religious passages or beliefs to reinforce abuse by, for instance, emphasizing her forgiveness and not his repentance and responsibility. How batterers ◗ Manipulates her religious beliefs or spiritual values by, for choose to carry example, refusing to allow her to attend church or spiritual out their abuse gatherings or claiming that she is condemned and unwanted by her God or her congregation. ◗ About three out of four victims of intimate USE OF PRIVILEGE violence defended themselves during the ◗ Treats her like a servant; makes all of the “big” decisions. incident. ◗ —Greenfeld, L. A., et al. (1998). Threatens to “out” the victim if it is a same-sex relationship. Violence by intimates: Analysis ◗ of data of crimes by current Mistranslates information if the woman has limited English pro- or former spouses, boyfriends, and ficiency. girlfriends. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice. ◗ Withholds medical attention or necessary intervention if the woman has a mental illness or physical or communicative ◗ About half the female disability. victims reported the ◗ incident to law enforce- Uses social status or job/status in the community to question ment authorities. her credibility. In about 20 percent ◗ Uses racial or ethnic slurs within an interracial couple. of those cases, the ◗ victim reported that Threatens immigration status. the offender was immediately arrested. —Ibid.

◗ Four in 10 jail inmates convicted of a violent crime against an intimate had a criminal justice status at the time of the crime. —Ibid.

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 16 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

POWER AND CONTROL WHEEL

Domestic violence is a socially supported behavior, learned through observation, experience and reinforcement. It is learned through our culture, institutions, families, schools and peer groups.

LTUR CU E l es an lu g a ua v TITUTIO g INS NS e s s e l rt d u uc t a o a r u c IOLENCE t a V io t e l se d i c a x n i ic ua r l s USING USING l i o y COERCION m t p h INTIMIDATION p e i AND THREATS o d s a i i n c d i s m e USING USING n e r m ECONOMIC EMOTIONAL

o ABUSE POWER ABUSE s

n o AND n

i i CONTROL a USING MALE USING g i l PRIVILEGE ISOLATION l e s r t e f r r a v s i USING MINIMIZING, a c c d CHILDREN DENYING i e p s h AND BLAMING m s y l o s g si ua n o ca x o e h v l se c e V e c e r IOLENCE n r nm rk o e o a nt w d e IN NS s STITUTIO s m ne u oi sic er CULTURE h

The “Power and Control Wheel” was developed by the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project in Duluth, MN.

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 17

HOW ABUSERS USE POWER AND CONTROL

Domestic violence is not impulsive, but purposeful behavior. The batterer chooses a range of abusive tactics that are reinforced by violence or the constant threat of violence.

ICALAB PHYS USE

ISOLATION Controlling what she does, EMOTIONAL ABUSE who she sees and talks Putting her down or making to, or where she goes. her feel bad about herself, Limiting access to phone, calling her names. Making transportation or money. her think she’s crazy. Mind games. ECONOMIC INTIMIDATION ABUSE Putting her in fear by Trying to keep her from P SE using looks, actions, getting or keeping a job. HY

U gestures, loud voice, Making her ask for money, smashing things or giving her an allowance or S B

destroying her property. POWER taking her money. IC

LA AND A LA A USING MALE SEXUAL ABUSE

CONTROL Making her do sexual things

IC PRIVILEGE

B S Treating her like a servant. against her will. Physically

Making all the “big” attacking the sexual parts U

HY decisions. Acting like the of her body.Treating her like P “master of the castle.” a sex object.

THREATS USING CHILDREN Making and/or carrying out Making her feel guilty threats to do something to about the children. hurt her emotionally. Using the children to Threatening to take the give messages. Using

children, commit suicide or visitation as a way to

report her to “welfare.” harass her.

SE S U IC B A LA

The “Power and Control Wheel” was developed by the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project in Duluth, MN.

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 18 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

atterer FACTORS FOR CHANGING intervention BATTERERS’ BEHAVIORS Bis a public safety program, Criminal justice and mental health systems are increas- ‘ ingly becoming more involved in domestic violence interven- not treatment; you must keep the tions. Frequently, the focus of batterer interventions is to hold focus on victim safety. batterers accountable, educate them about the effects their Otherwise, the criminal actions have on the victim, and underscore that they must learn justice system is only and decide to act differently. These batterer intervention pro- offering the batterer a grams are only one part of a coordinated community response safe haven to escape that delivers a consistent and supportive response to survivors the consequences of and consequences to batterers. his offense. Because batterers usually don’t voluntarily attend batterer — CHIEF PROBATION OFFICER intervention programs, intervention strategies must emphasize OF A’ MODEL COURT zero tolerance for new incidents of abuse. The message must be DOMESTIC ABUSE PROGRAM constantly reinforced that his abuse will be exposed and that he won’t get away with it. Well-established and respected batterer

RESOURCES intervention programs recognize and clearly stress that the goals of any program should parallel those of probation: Victim safety must be the first priority, followed by offender accountability and behav- Batterer ior change. Effective batterer intervention programs consult with intervention advocates who work directly with victims of domestic violence to program standards help keep victims safe and to evaluate program practices. In 2006, MCADSV pub- While important, the content of batterer intervention pro- lished its Standards and grams seems secondary to the degree to which these programs Guidelines for Batterer Intervention Programs. are integrated into coordinated community responses to domes- The document outlines tic violence. A successful batterer intervention program is part of best practices in the field of batterer inter- a process that begins with an arrest or the issuance of a protection vention and was written order and also includes prosecution, sentencing and oversight of by professionals from batterer intervention the batterer’s subsequent behaviors by the justice system. The programs and advocates effectiveness of batterer intervention programs as a whole is who work with victims of domestic violence. The inconclusive, and the limitations of all batterer interventions publication also should be explained to victims to reduce the chance they will includes a detailed tool to aid batterer interven- have a false sense of security that their partners will be “helped” tion programs in self- simply by attending an intervention program. evaluation. It’s important to note that anger management and To obtain a copy of MCADSV Standards and impulse-control classes, and some marital counseling and medi- Guidelines for Batterer ation, are frequently used misguidedly as intervention strate- Intervention Programs, contact MCADSV at gies with batterers. These approaches don’t generally take into (573) 634-4161 or account the power imbalances in abusive relationships and [email protected]. don’t adequately emphasize to the batterer that he will be held accountable for his actions. 9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 19

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ITS COMPLEX EFFECTS ON CHILDREN AND MOTHERS

ike their mothers, children of women who have been battered frequently L live in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. Quite simply, domestic violence can deprive children of the joys of childhood. It can disrupt their sense of safety and security and can threaten their well-being, development and social adjustment. In spite of these negative effects, it is important to note that each child’s response to domestic violence is unique and is affected by the frequency and severity of the abuse, her or CHILD SAFETY his relationships with adult caregivers, and a host of other complex factors. KEY Children’s safety and well-being The safety and security of POINT is in fact often dependent survivors and their children are upon their mother’s safety. closely linked. In the vast major- Holding the batterer, not the ity of families where domestic mother, accountable for the violence is prevalent, the violence and protecting the mother is the primary caregiver, abused parent from further harm is critical in providing a safe and the father is the perpetrator. environment for both the mother Women victimized by domestic and her children. A child’s mother violence who have children also might be the one constant often make decisions about their in a long period of turmoil. relationships with intimate partners based on their beliefs of what truly will be in the best interests of their children. These decisions are not simple. A mother must determine how to protect herself and her children from physical danger. She also must contemplate how much she wants to uproot her children’s lives by fleeing to a shelter, changing schools, losing financial security or having them see their father arrested. Some policymakers, child protection workers and judges mistakenly assume that if a child is exposed to domestic violence, then the child is in immediate danger and must be removed from the home. Mothers victimized MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 20 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

by domestic violence are sometimes also criminally prosecuted y 3-month-old for “failure to protect” their children, even if those mothers woke up in believe that leaving the relationship will put themselves and Mthe middle their children at greater risk of harm. These types of punitive ‘of the night with responses to victims do not hold the batterer accountable for his an ear infection and actions and can cause even greater unintended harm to the chil- temperature. My dren and mother. Such actions ignore the reality that a woman husband screamed, is at greater risk for assaults after she leaves her abuser. ‘Shut the baby up, There also is growing evidence that in a significant number I’m trying to sleep.’ of homes where either child maltreatment or woman battering is I was trying to comfort occurring the other form of violence also exists. her, but nothing worked. He got up, took her from my arms THE EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH and whacked her. She WITNESSING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE had a black-and-blue rear end. Now what Millions of children are exposed to domestic violence each should I do? I year in the United States. They can be harmed by: thought. If I take her ◗ Intentional injuries inflicted by the perpetrator. ◗ to the doctor, they’ll Unintentional injuries from violence directed at the mother. ◗ An atmosphere in which they directly witness violence or the take her away from me aftermath of an attack. because I’m the ◗ Emotional abuse when they are used as pawns to coercively mother and I allowed control the abused parent. this. My husband A batterer’s use of violence against a child’s mother can told me, too, ‘No affect that child in varied and complex ways that can be exhibited matter what you say, in emotional, behavioral, social and physical development. Some I’m going to tell them children may exhibit aggression, depression, anxiety, lower levels that you did it. of self-esteem and below-average academic performance, while — DOMESTIC VIOLENCE others may show no response. ’SURVIVOR Some children might also lose respect for their mother—and women in general—if their mother’s abuser constantly tells her she is worthless and unable to care for her children. These children also must contend with conflicting emotions about a father they both fear and love. The effects of domestic violence on children also illustrate how their reactions can mimic so-called diagnosable disorders, including attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. These reactions can be exaggerated in crisis situations, such as when a child is temporarily residing in a domestic violence shelter, and should be considered normal responses to abnormal situations.

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 21

MODERATING FACTORS IN A CHILD’S RESPONSE RELEVANT DATA The impact of witnessing violence can be magnified or reduced by a number of factors, with some children showing Children great resilience in the face of adversity: and ◗ Age and gender of child. Younger children in particular have domestic violence fewer resources to draw upon to make sense of their experience. Gender is an important factor because of the way children are ◗ It is estimated that socialized. Girls tend to internalize their responses more than between 2.3 and 10 boys. Girls are likely to exhibit more depressive and anxious million children are behaviors, while boys might exhibit more aggressive behaviors. exposed to intimate partner violence each ◗ Other violent experiences. Whether a child also has year in the United been battered or abused will have a significant influence. States. Consideration also must be given to the level of violence — Straus, M. (1992). Children as witnesses to marital violence: A in the child’s larger environment. risk factor. Columbus, OH: Ross ◗ Laboratories; Calsom, B. E. Severity and frequency of violence. Varying degrees of (1984). Observations of inter- violence and the recency of violence will have different effects. parental violence. In A. R. Roberts (Ed.), Battered women and their ◗ Social supports available and the extent to which the families. New York: Springer. child can accept support. A child’s relationships with adult ◗ caregivers, both within the family and community, strongly As many as a half million children may be influence the child’s adjustment. encountered by police during domestic WHAT CHILDREN NEED violence arrests each year in the Children whose mothers are battered are not hidden, but the United States. reality of their lives is all too often overlooked or misunderstood. — Office of Juvenile and Delinquency Prevention. They attend school, child care or church. Many already have con- (November 2000). Safe from the start: Taking action on children tact with healthcare providers and mental-health professionals, exposed to violence. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice. government social workers, police, and the justice system. At the ◗ High percentages of very least, every child needs and deserves these basic services: abused women reported ◗ Education and support. Children need to learn what domestic arguments about child violence is and hear that it is not their fault. support (30 percent), visitation (23 percent) ◗ Communication with others about what happened to them. and child custody Children need to talk about their experiences and learn that their (15 percent). situation is not unique. Talking with a group of peers can be helpful. — Raphael, J., & Tolman, R. M. (1997). Trapped by poverty, ◗ Safety planning. Children need to develop a safety plan so trapped by abuse: New evidence documenting the relationship they can feel and be safe. A safety plan can give them control between domestic violence and of situations in which they often have little power, and it will welfare. Chicago: Taylor Institute. increase their chances of escaping harm. Anyone who has contact with children should be aware of the possibility that domestic violence can occur in any home. Clearly, greater screening is required, both routinely and particularly when children demonstrate behavioral or emotional problems.

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 22 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

RELEVANT DATA NOT ALL ADVOCATES ARE MANDATED REPORTERS Children and By Missouri law, not all advocates are considered man- domestic violence dated reporters. “Mandated reporter” is a legal term. Legally ◗ Longitudinal studies mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect, as identified in reveal time and time again that 50 to 75 210.115 RSMo, are: percent of children Any physician, medical examiner, coroner, dentist, chiropractor, growing up in families suffering from domestic optometrist, podiatrist, resident, intern, nurse, hospital or clinic violence, as well as personnel that are engaged in the examination, care, treatment or exposure to other risks, research of persons, and any other health practitioner, psycholo- defeat the odds and turn a life that appears gist, mental health professional, social worker, day care center destined for further worker, juvenile officer, probation or parole officer, jail or deten- hardship into one that tion center personnel, teacher, principal or other school official, illustrates resilience and triumph. minister as provided by section 352.400 RSMo, peace officer or —White, Z. R. (2003). Tapping law enforcement official, or other person with responsibility for innate resilience in children. Synergy, 7(2). the care of children.

◗ The majority of Domestic violence programs have policies that address the studies indicate specific procedures by which staff who are legally mandated to that in 30 to 60 percent of families where either report child abuse and neglect must comply with the mandated child maltreatment or reporting provision of Missouri law 210.112 RSMo. These poli- adult domestic violence is occurring the other cies take into account the provisions for such reporting in com- form of violence also is pliance with the strict confidentiality requirements for the shel- being perpetrated. —Edleson, J. L. (1999) The overlap ter service information and records in Missouri law 455.220 between child maltreatment and woman battering. Violence Against RSMo. This Missouri law, as upheld by the Supreme Court of Women, 5(2). Missouri in State ex rel. Hope House (2004), forbids domestic violence shelter staff and volunteers from disclosing records or testifying about those to whom they provide services unless that information is subpoenaed for a court case and the women whose records are sought consent to the release in writing. For anyone who works with victims of domestic violence and their children, it is important to know the Missouri Department of Social Services Children’s Division’s definition of child abuse and the procedures the Children’s Division will follow after a report of abuse. If a report is necessary, it is vital to keep the mother informed throughout the entire process. In most instances, a more positive outcome for the family can be achieved by providing support and services to a mother before, during and after she makes a child abuse report herself.

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 23

EMPOWERMENT AND ADVOCACY FOR SURVIVORS

hroughout this publication, the word “empowerment” has been used Tcountless times. There is good reason for this. A woman’s abuser takes power and control from her through the use of physical force, threats and coercion. Empowerment restores a woman’s power and control over her own life and affords her the opportunity to see herself as a strong survivor who can participate actively in securing safety for herself and her children. A woman victimized by domestic violence deserves to tell her story to a non- judgmental, empathetic person. It is critically important to let her know that she is believed and that the violence EMPOWERMENT is not her fault. This might be her first—and perhaps last— opportunity to be fully heard. By KEY Empowerment affords a woman POINT listening to a survivor talk about who has been battered the opportunity to see herself as what has happened to her, you a strong survivor who can will have a greater understand- participate actively in securing a ing of her situation and can dis- life free from violence. cuss options that are grounded in her experience, hopes and fears. What makes it possible for men to entrap women is not their When people working with greater physical strength but a woman who has been battered the social strength they derive inform her of available resources when unequal power relationships and let her empower herself are reinforced, rather than through education—instead of countered, in helping endeavors. taking control and making decisions for her—it is more likely that the she will be equipped to advocate for herself both immediately and throughout her life. That is not to say that advocates cannot provide additional assistance securing resources when asked by the women with whom they are working. It also is important to remember that victims of domestic violence are, first and foremost, people. All too often women who are beaten by their intimate partners are saddled with labels and diagnoses by well-intentioned, yet misguided, people who simply want to help. MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 24 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

Unfortunately, the labels that are applied to women who have hey tell me been battered in particular moments in their lives do not reflect I wouldn’t make the total context and complexity of their experiences. People who Tdecisions on work with survivors should keep in mind that these individuals ‘the job without some- can and do harness the enormous power of their own experiences body’s OK. I could not to move beyond the violence that subdues the spirit within. make decisions on my own. That’s the biggest drawback that I’ve THE LIFE PROCESS OF had, learning how to ASSISTING WOMEN VICTIMIZED make decisions and BY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE feeling comfortable with what I can do. Listening, informing and educating can lead to empower- That I, that I’m ment for a victim when the LIFE process of assistance is used. allowed to make a Through this process, victims gain knowledge, and knowledge is decision and I don’t power. This process happens in degrees, but it does happen. have to check with LISTEN someone to make sure ◗ Provide a safe place for a woman to talk and tell her story. that this is the way it ◗ Afford sufficient time for her to become comfortable and able should be. The people to discuss the details of her abuse. in the office say I was ◗ Begin with her story, history, concerns and questions. Affirm her experience and what she is saying. Clarify anything you, or she, afraid to do anything do not understand. without making sure ◗ Identify her hopes and fears and the resources she is currently that somebody said using or might need. it was OK for me to ◗ Help her create a personalized safety plan. do so. INFORM — SURVIVOR OF ’ DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ◗ Tell her about available resources. ◗ Explore her circumstances and discuss the worst- and best-case scenarios as they relate to each of the remedies available to her.

FACILITATE ◗ Help her to critically assess her chosen course of action (including her safety plan) and to understand the likely consequences of each action. ◗ Schedule specific times and dates for ongoing contacts or follow-up. ◗ Explore all contingency plans.

EMPOWER AND ASSIST HER ◗ Educate her so she can advocate for herself, thereby taking control of her life and making it safer for herself and her children.

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 25

EMPOWERMENT IS THE CORE OF ADVOCACY

In the empowerment model, a woman seeking help is assumed to be a basically healthy person who needs understanding, concrete information, support and resources to make changes. You should consciously reinforce the expectation that a woman who has been battered can—and will—take charge of her own life.

RESPECT CONFIDENTIALITY All discussions must occur in private, without other family members present. This is essential to building trust and BELIEVE HER PROMOTE ACCESS ensuring her safety. AND AFFIRM TO COMMUNITY HER EXPERIENCES SERVICES Listen to her and Know the resources in acknowledge her your community. Is there feelings. Let her know a hotline, shelter or she is not alone; many non-residential program women have similar for victims of domestic EMPOWERMENT experiences. violence? THROUGH HELP HER PLAN ADVOCACY FOR FUTURE ACKNOWLEDGE SAFETY THE INJUSTICE What has she tried in The violence perpetuated the past to keep herself against her is not her safe? Is it working? Does fault. No one deserves she have a place to go to be abused. if she needs to escape? RESPECT HER AUTONOMY Respect her right to make decisions in her own life. She is the expert on her life.

This is an adaptation of the “Empowerment Wheel” developed by the Domestic Violence Project, Inc., in Kenosha, WI, and is based on the “Power and Control and Equality Wheel” developed by the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project in Duluth, MN.

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 26 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

A GUIDE TO WORKING WITH WOMEN IN CRISIS

The written Japanese kanji expression for “crisis” is composed of two characters. Taken separately, one means “opportunity,” the other means “danger.” Crisis can thus be a time of danger or vulnerability that offers an opportunity for change and growth.

◗ REMAIN CALM Fear is contagious, and many women in crisis have enough fear bottled up to last a lifetime. By emotionally reacting to a woman’s fear you might limit your own ability to think clearly. The best ways to combat your fear are to be well-informed on procedures and resources, know yourself and learn to gauge your own emotional reactions, and get to know the woman you are working with so you can help her separate objective reality from her immediate sense of fear. ◗ LET WOMEN DECIDE THEIR OWN PACE FOR CHANGE Allow women you are helping to decide on their own plan of action. Some women in crisis have never recognized their own resources. Others have lost touch with their resources. Respect and believe in a woman’s capacity to change and grow. ◗ EXPLAIN ALL KINDS OF INFORMATION THOROUGHLY Don’t assume that women know about their rights or available services. Don’t talk down to women, but do be thorough in explaining information about your services and other community resources. If a woman looks or sounds confused, ask if she has any questions. Listen to her. Remember that she is the expert on her situation. ◗ DO NOT IMPOSE YOUR OWN VALUES This does not mean you cannot express concern about a woman’s choices if you believe she is in danger, but it does mean you must be careful not to reject her even if you disagree with her behavior. Understanding the dynamics of domestic violence can help you avoid anger and despair when women struggle with decisions about ending a violent relationship or “giving it one more try.” ◗ ENCOURAGE EACH WOMAN TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR HER FUTURE There might be a tendency for you to want to do things for her that she can do for herself. Even though you can and should help her, she will become stronger and more self-sufficient as she assumes responsibility for her own life. ◗ DON’T CONVEY DISAPPOINTMENT IF A WOMAN RETURNS TO AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP She will have enough conflicts about her decision. She might feel like she is failing you. You can point out your concerns about her safety while still accepting her. Respect her decision and remind her that you are available if she needs you in the future. Always work with her to create a safety plan. ◗ BE ABLE TO TOLERATE YOUR OWN ANGER AND THE WOMAN’S ANGER Have some personal outlets for your anger, anxiety and frustrations. You will be better equipped to help women in crisis if you can avoid “burn out” and overwhelming stress. Talk to other staff members or domestic violence program advocates if you need help dealing with your anger or a woman’s anger about the violence she has survived. ◗ MINIMIZE EDUCATIONAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DIFFERENCES AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE Avoid focusing on your own personal history. If you are distant, however, the woman you are trying to help might feel hurt. Strive for a comfortable balance. Answer her questions about you with minimal detail and turn the conversation back to her life. Convey warmth, respect and concern.

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 27

PERSONALIZED SAFETY PLAN

Safety plans may help you anticipate the dangers you may face. Just as abusers continually shift their tactics of power and control, your safety plan is an adaptable tool to help increase your safety in your ever-changing situation.

◗ WHEN TO USE A SAFETY PLAN ◗ EVALUATE YOUR OPTIONS Safety plans can be made for a variety of situa- Only you can judge who it’s safe to tell about tions: for dealing with an emergency, such as your situation and who to ask for help. when you are threatened with a physical assault Sometimes, people who don’t have good infor- or an assault has occurred; for continuing to live mation about domestic violence respond to with or to date a partner who has been abusive; women who have been abused in ways that or for protecting yourself after you have ended a aren’t helpful, even when they mean well. On the relationship with an abusive partner. other hand, you might feel comfortable asking for help from someone you know. It’s your decision. ◗ USE WHAT YOU ALREADY KNOW The important thing is for you to identify all the If you are a woman who has been abused, you people who might be willing and able to help probably know more about safety planning and you. Make a list of their phone numbers and risk assessment than you might realize. Being in attach it to your safety plan for easy reference. a relationship with an abusive partner—and surviving—requires considerable skill and ◗ PLAN AHEAD resourcefulness. Any time you do or say You don’t have to wait for an emergency to ask something as a way to protect yourself or your for help. In fact, it’s a good idea to talk to children, you are assessing risk and enacting a people who can help before there’s a crisis. safety plan. You do it all the time; it’s just not Find out what they are willing and able to do always a conscious process. for you. That way, you’ll know in advance if you have a place to stay, a source of financial ◗ THINK IT THROUGH assistance or a safe person to keep copies of It can be a helpful safety strategy to evaluate important papers. risks and make safety plans in a more intentional way.Whether you are currently with ◗ REDUCE YOUR RISK your partner or have ended the relationship, No woman has control over her partner’s and whether you choose to use available ser- violence, but women can and do find ways to vices or to involve the police, there are certain reduce their risk of harm. The following safety things that are helpful to consider in planning plan is a tool to help you identify and evaluate for your future safety. your options and assist you in creating a personalized plan to reduce your risk when ◗ BE AWARE OF DANGERS confronted with the threat of harm or with If you are planning to leave your partner or actual harm. Use what applies or change it to already have left, be aware that batterers often reflect your particular situation. Your safety escalate their violence during times of separa- plan does not need to be written down (espe- tion, increasing your risk for harm, including cially if you fear your abuser will find it), serious and life-threatening injury. Making a though you may choose to. There’s no right or separation safety plan can help reduce the wrong way to develop a safety plan. Make it risks to you and your children. your own, and review it regularly to make changes as needed.

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 28 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

PERSONALIZED SAFETY PLAN (CONTINUED)

◗ SAFETY DURING A VIOLENT INCIDENT ❑ I will ask ______and ______❑ I will use my judgment and intuition. If I think to see who would be able to let me stay with my partner is going to hurt me, I will try to move them or lend me some money. to a space that has lower risk, such as ❑ I can increase my independence by opening a ______. (Often bathrooms, bank account and getting credit cards in my garages, kitchens, areas near weapons or rooms own name; by taking classes or getting job without an outside exit are most dangerous.) skills; and/or by getting copies of all the impor- ❑ If the situation is serious, I can give my tant papers and documents I might need and partner what he wants to try to calm him keeping them with ______. down. I have the right to protect myself until ❑ I can rehearse my escape plan and, if appropri- I/my children are out of danger. ate, practice it with my children. ❑ ◗ SAFETY IF STAYING If it’s not safe to talk openly, I will use ______as the code word or signal to ❑ I can tell ______about the my children that we are leaving, or to my family violence and request they call the police if they or friends that we are coming. hear noises coming from my home. ❑ I can keep my purse and car keys ready and ❑ I can teach my children how to use the tele- put them ______so I can leave quickly. phone or dial 911 to contact the police or fire department and/or how to contact a safe Items to consider taking if leaving neighbor for help. I will make sure my children The following items may be helpful to have if you know our address. decide to leave, but remember that almost all of ❑ If I have a programmable phone, I can program these items are replaceable. emergency numbers. ❑ Identification for myself ❑ I will use ______as the code ❑ My and my children’s birth certificates word with my children or my friends so they will ❑ My and my children’s Social Security cards call for help if needed. ❑ School and vaccination records ❑ If I have to leave my home, I will go to ❑ Money, checkbook, bankbooks, ATM cards ______. If I cannot go there, I can go to ______. ❑ Credit cards ❑ The domestic violence program hotline number ❑ Medication and medical supplies is ______. I can call it or the ❑ Keys—house, car, work national hotline at (800) 799-SAFE for help. ❑ Driver’s license, car registration ◗ SAFETY IF LEAVING ❑ Insurance papers ❑ Preparing to leave Public assistance ID/Medicaid cards ❑ Passports, Alien Registration Receipt Cards, ❑ I will call a domestic violence program to get work permits help making my plans. The hotline number for the nearest program is ______. ❑ Divorce or separation papers ❑ I will leave money and an extra set of keys with ❑ Lease, rental agreement or house deed ______so I can leave quickly. ❑ Car/mortgage payment book ❑ I will leave extra clothes with ______. ❑ Children’s toys, security blankets, stuffed animals ❑ I can open a post office box and have personal ❑ Sentimental items, photos mail and bills (credit cards, cell phone, etc.) ❑ My personalized safety plan (if written down) sent there.

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PERSONALIZED SAFETY PLAN (CONTINUED)

◗ SAFETY AT HOME ❑ I can tell ______and ______about the situation and provide them with a If my partner and I are no longer living together photo or description of my partner and any ❑ I can, or ask my landlord to, change the locks possible vehicles he may drive. I can ask them on my doors and windows. to call the police if they believe I or my children ❑ I can, or ask my landlord to, replace wooden doors are in danger. with metal ones. ❑ When I am out of the house, I will try not to ❑ I can, or ask my landlord to, install security sys- travel alone and will try to stay in public areas. tems, including additional locks, window bars, ◗ poles to wedge against doors, etc. WITH AN ORDER OF PROTECTION ❑ ❑ I can buy rope ladders to be used for escape I will keep my protection order ______. from second-floor windows. (Always keep it on or near you.) ❑ ❑ I can install smoke detectors and put fire I will give copies of my protection order to the extinguishers on each floor in my home. local police or sheriff and to departments in towns where I visit friends and family. ❑ I can provide my onsite property manager ❑ and/or trusted neighbors with a picture of my I will give copies to my employer, my religious partner and ask them to notify the police if they advisor, my closest friend, my children’s school see him near my home. and child-care center and ______. ❑ ◗ If my partner destroys my order or if I lose it, I can AT WORK get another copy from the court that issued it. ❑ I can inform my boss, the security supervisor and ❑ If my partner violates the order, I can call the the employee assistance program (EAP), if avail- police and report a violation, contact my attor- able, about my situation. The number of the EAP ney, call my domestic violence program advo- office is ______. cate, and/or advise the court of the violation. ❑ I can ask ______❑ I can call a domestic violence program if I have to screen my calls and visitors at work. questions about how to enforce an order or if I ❑ When leaving work, I can ______. have problems getting it enforced. ❑ If there’s trouble when traveling to and from ◗ work, I can ______. PROTECTING MY CHILDREN ❑ I can teach developmentally appropriate safety ◗ SAFETY IN PUBLIC OR IF BEING STALKED strategies to my children. ❑ If I suspect I am in imminent danger, I will locate ❑ I can teach my children how to make a collect call a safe place for myself (police stations, resi- to me if they are concerned about their safety. dences of family or friends, domestic violence ❑ I can teach my children how to use the telephone shelters, local churches, public areas etc.). or dial 911 to contact the police and fire depart- ❑ I can document my partner’s actions and keep it ments and how to contact a safe neighbor for in a safe place. This may include taking photos of help. I will make sure they know our address. destroyed property/vandalism, saving answering ❑ I can tell my children’s caretakers who has machine messages, keeping letters/notes, etc. permission to pick them up and make sure ❑ I can change my patterns—avoid stores, caretakers know how to recognize those people. restaurants, banks, doctor’s appointments, ❑ I will give the people who take care of my self-service laundries and other places where children copies of custody and protection my partner might find me based on my regular orders, as well as emergency numbers. schedule.

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PERSONALIZED SAFETY PLAN (CONTINUED)

◗ SAFETY AND TECHNOLOGY ◗ KEEP YOUR PLAN IN A SAFE PLACE ❑ Each day there are advances in technology. I Only you can decide if it is safe to have a written can ask someone familiar with technology or safety plan. If you decide to keep a written safety domestic violence about the ways that my plan, make sure to find a place to keep it where partner may monitor me. your partner won’t find it; maybe you can ask a ❑ I will use a computer that my partner doesn’t friend to keep a copy for you. Whether it’s safe to have access to when I look for help, a new write down your plan or not, it’s still important to place to live, etc. It may be safest to use a make one. computer at a public library, Internet café, ◗ WHAT CAN A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE community center or ______. PROGRAM DO FOR ME? ❑ I can ask my friends and family to be careful Local domestic violence programs are a vital about who they give my e-mail address to, and resource, providing free and confidential assis- to use the Bcc: option when copying me in on tance to women victimized by domestic violence e-mail. and their children. They provide emergency safety ❑ When making or receiving private calls, I will not services, such as shelter and 24-hour crisis hot- use a cell phone that I share with my partner lines. But you don’t have to stay in a shelter to because my partner may have access to cell get help from a program. Most also provide a full phone billing records and phone logs and may range of non-residential services to women who have put settings on my phone that allow him have been battered. to track my whereabouts. My local domestic Domestic violence program advocates have accu- violence shelter may have a donated cell phone rate information about domestic violence and are I can use. experienced in providing assistance to women who ❑ I will ask the court systems, post office and other have been battered and their children. They under- government agencies how they protect or publish stand the criminal justice, family court and social my records and request that they seal or restrict service systems, and they are familiar with other access to my files to help protect my safety. community resources that might be useful to you. ◗ MY EMOTIONAL HEALTH In addition to giving you good information, advocates often can accompany you to court, to the ❑ If I am feeling down, lonely or confused, I can police station or to social services offices. They call ______or the can provide you with practical and emotional sup- domestic violence hotline ______. port. Getting help from someone who has experi- ❑ If I have left my partner and am considering ence working with survivors of domestic violence returning, I will call ______and who knows how to work with the different sys- or spend time with ______tems can make things a lot easier for you. before I make a decision. ❑ I can attend support groups, workshops or NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE classes at the local domestic violence program or ______so I can build a support system, learn skills or get information. 800-799-SAFE (7233) ❑ I will look at how and when I drink alcohol or Toll-free, 24-hour crisis intervention use other drugs. If I am going to drink or use and referrals to domestic violence other drugs, I will do it in a place where people programs in your area. are committed to my safety. This personalized safety plan was adapted from ones developed by AWARE in St. Louis, the Office of the City Attorney, San Diego, the National Center for Victims of Crime Stalking Resource Center and the National Network to End Domestic Violence Safety Net Project.

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FUNDAMENTAL ISSUES RELATED TO JUSTICE SYSTEM REMEDIES

or most women, becoming a victim of a violent crime is their first introduction to F the legal system. It can be complicated, confusing, frustrating, intimidating and, often, insulting. The stress of dealing with the bewildering proceedings and the frequently encountered gender bias of the justice system adds to a victim’s trauma. And, while the court system is able to respond to some of the needs of women who have been battered, it is equally impor- SAFETY tant that both survivors and those who work with them understand its limitations in ending violence KEY Safety for women who have against women. POINT been battered and their children Because a woman’s danger should be of paramount concern generally increases as she tries to in all interactions with them. escape her abuser, it is vitally important that she have a well- Danger escalates for a woman who has been battered and her thought-out safety plan. She is children when she leaves her the expert on her situation and abusive partner or seeks has been using all of her skills to assistance from the survive so far. The likelihood is police, justice system or great that her abuser will retaliate social service providers. or that the violence will escalate as she tries to engage the justice system. Keep in mind that testifying in court against an abuser can be a frightening and dangerous thing for a survivor to do. It might be the first time she faces her partner since the last attack or when she was able to leave. She has every reason to believe that his anger and violence will escalate as a result of the steps she is taking to free herself. Because victims recognize the danger associated with testifying against their abusers, or because of threats from their abuser, they may recant accusations of abuse or refuse to cooperate with law enforcement and/or prosecutors. While recanting or refusing to cooperate may appear to be counterintuitive—if he goes to jail, he cannot hurt her—abusers often threaten harm and have ways (such as using friends, family or children) of controlling their victims even while incarcerated. Also, most batterers do not go to jail. And, those who do may seek revenge once they are released. Recanting or refusing to cooperate with the prosecution of their MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 32 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

batterers is an often-misunderstood survival strategy sometimes hat good does employed by women victimized by domestic violence. an Order of Be extremely cautious about urging a woman who has been W Protection do? battered to obtain an Order of Protection. It must be made clear It’s a piece of paper. to her that it is not an ironclad shield against the abuser’s ‘ renewed assaults. Even law enforcement agencies that have You still have to live in your house without strong resolve to respond to victims’ needs cannot provide offi- the police there all cers to be with her 24 hours a day. Furthermore, a woman’s ability to rely on assistance from police and sheriff’s deputies often the time. You still depends upon the particular officer who answers a call. Even at have to be able to best, the violence might happen so suddenly that she can call for get to the phone help only after an assault has occurred. and call for help. — SURVIVOR OF BENEFITS, DRAWBACKS OF PROTECTION ORDERS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE’ Experience suggests that Orders of Protection might be most effective with men who ordinarily obey the law and have something to protect, such as their standing in the community or their employment. For the batterer who has contempt for all authority, has a history of other criminal behavior or is determined to control his partner at all costs, an Order of Protection might offer little increased safety to a woman. On the other hand, having an Order of Protection can enhance local law enforcement’s efforts to assist the victim, and repeated violations of a protection order eventually are likely to result in legal consequences for a perpetrator.

ACCOUNTABILITY FOR CRIMINAL OFFENDERS Domestic violence is a crime, and it ought to be accorded the same prosecution efforts as any other violent offense. Communities and the justice system have a critical interest in reducing the prevalence of domestic violence, particularly because such violence tends to escalate in frequency and severity if unchecked. According to the U.S. Department of Justice National Crime Victimization Survey, more than 1,200 women were murdered by a current or former intimate in 2000. In addition to holding criminals accountable for their conduct, there are other significant reasons that underscore the importance of a diligent response to domestic violence from members of the criminal justice system. Offender prosecution in domestic violence cases can protect the victim from additional acts of violence, reduce children’s exposure and possible injury, deter the abuser from committing further acts of violence and reinforce a community’s refusal to tolerate domestic abuse. In 2000, the Missouri General Assembly established new crimes of domestic assault with enhanced penalties for repeat offenders. These crimes are outlined in the table on page 37. 9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 33

PROCEDURE FOR OBTAINING AN ADULT ORDER OF PROTECTION

ABUSE OCCURS

PETITIONER FILES FOR ORDER OF PROTECTION AT COURTHOUSE

PETITION REVIEWED BY COURT

EX PARTE ORDER OF PROTECTION EX PARTE ORDER OF PROTECTION GRANTED DENIED

SHERIFF/POLICE GIVEN COPY OF EX PARTE ORDER TO SERVE UPON RESPONDENT AND TO ENTER INTO MULES

PETITIONER GIVEN EX PARTE ORDER PETITIONER GIVEN COURT DATE AND DATE FOR FULL HEARING FOR FULL HEARING

RESPONDENT SERVED WITH ORDER RESPONDENT SERVED WITH AND NOTICE FOR FULL HEARING NOTICE OF FULL HEARING

FULL ORDER OF PROTECTION HEARING

FULL ORDER OF PROTECTION FULL ORDER OF PROTECTION GRANTED FOR UP TO ONE YEAR DENIED

PETITIONER GIVEN DENIAL APPEALED TO COPY OF ORDER APPELLATE COURT

RESPONDENT MAILED OR SERVED WITH COPY OF ORDER

SHERIFF/POLICE GIVEN COPY OF FULL ORDER TO ENTER INTO MULES

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RELIEF AVAILABLE WITH PROTECTION ORDERS

The Missouri Adult Abuse Act allows a victim of abuse to ask the court for the following types of help through an Order of Protection. However, these orders are not always granted by the court.

EX PARTE ORDER OF PROTECTION (SECTION 455.045, RSMo) ◗ Temporarily restrains the respondent from abusing, under this section by reason of the absence of a prop- threatening to abuse, molesting, stalking or disturbing erty interest in the dwelling unit; or d) jointly occupied the peace of the petitioner. by the petitioner and a person other than the respon- ◗ Temporarily restrains the respondent from entering the dent; provided that the respondent has no property premises of the dwelling unit of the petitioner when interest in the dwelling unit. the dwelling unit is: a) jointly owned, leased or rented ◗ Temporarily restrains the respondent from or jointly occupied by both parties; or b) owned, communicating with the petitioner in any manner leased, rented or occupied by the petitioner indi- or through any medium. vidually; or c) jointly owned, leased or rented by the ◗ Awards temporary custody of minor children where petitioner and a person other than the respondent; appropriate. provided, however, no spouse shall be denied relief FULL ORDER OF PROTECTION (SECTIONS 455.050 and 455.075, RSMo) ◗ Prohibits the respondent from abusing, threatening to ◗ Awards income maintenance, for no more than 180 abuse, molesting, stalking or disturbing the peace of days, to the petitioner when the petitioner and the the petitioner. respondent are lawfully married. ◗ Prohibits the respondent from entering the premises ◗ Orders the respondent to make or to continue to make of the dwelling unit of the petitioner when the dwelling rent or mortgage payments on a residence occupied unit is: a) jointly owned, leased or rented or jointly by the petitioner if the respondent is found to have a occupied by both parties; or b) owned, leased, duty to support the petitioner or other dependent rented or occupied by the petitioner individually; or household members. c) jointly owned, leased, rented or occupied by the ◗ Orders the respondent to pay the petitioner’s rent at petitioner and a person other than the respondent; a residence other than the one previously shared by provided, however, no spouse shall be denied relief the parties if the respondent is found to have a duty under this section by reason of the absence of a to support the petitioner and the petitioner requests property interest in the dwelling unit; or d) jointly alternative housing. occupied by the petitioner and a person other than ◗ Orders the petitioner be given temporary possession the respondent; provided that the respondent has of specified personal property, such as automobiles, no property interest in the dwelling unit. checkbooks, keys and other personal effects. ◗ Prohibits the respondent from communicating with ◗ Prohibits the respondent from transferring, encumber- the petitioner in any manner or through any medium. ing, or otherwise disposing of specified property mutu- ◗ Awards custody of minor children born to or adopted ally owned or leased by the parties. by the parties when the court has jurisdiction over ◗ Orders the respondent to participate in a court- such child and no prior order regarding custody is approved counseling program designed to help pending or has been made, and the best interest of batterers stop violent behavior or to participate the child requires such order be issued. There is a pre- in a substance abuse treatment program. sumption that the best interest of the child is served ◗ Orders the respondent to pay a reasonable fee for by placing him or her in the custody of the non-abu- housing and other services that have been provided sive parent. or that are being provided to the petitioner by a ◗ Establishes a visitation schedule for the non-custodial domestic violence shelter. parent that is in the best interest of the child. The ◗ Orders the respondent to pay court costs. court can deny visitation if it finds that visitation would ◗ Orders the respondent to pay the cost of medical endanger the child’s physical health, impair his or her treatment and services that have been provided or emotional development or would otherwise conflict that are being provided to the petitioner as a result with the best interests of the child, or that no visitation of injuries sustained to the petitioner by an act of can be arranged that would sufficiently protect the domestic violence committed by the respondent. custodial parent from future abuse. ◗ Orders one of the parties to pay the other’s ◗ Awards child support, when no prior order of attorney’s fees. support exists.

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MISSOURI ADULT ABUSE ACT AT A GLANCE

ADULT ORDERS CHILD ORDERS WHO CAN (§455.010) Any adult, defined as a (§455.501 & §455.503) Any parent, OBTAIN person 18 years of age or older or guardian, guardian ad litem, RELIEF? otherwise emancipated. This person court-appointed special advocate, is called the petitioner. or juvenile officer on behalf of a child (any person under 18 years of age). This person is called the petitioner. WHOM CAN (§455.010) A family or household (§455.501 & §455.505) A former THEY OBTAIN member (a spouse, a former or present household member (an RELIEF spouse, adults related by blood or adult living in the same household marriage, adults residing together or previously living in the same AGAINST? or who resided together in the past, household), an emancipated child an adult who is or has been in a or a person stalking a child. This continuing social relationship of a person is called the respondent. romantic or intimate nature with the victim, or adults who have a child in common, regardless of whether they have been married or have resided together) or an adult stalking the victim. This person is called the respondent. WHAT ACTS (§455.010) Abuse, which includes, (§455.501) Abuse, which involves BY THE but is not limited to, the occurrence any physical injury, sexual abuse ABUSER of any of the following acts, or emotional abuse inflicted on attempts, or threats against a a child other than by accidental FORM THE person who may be protected under means by an adult household BASIS FOR the Adult Abuse Act: assault, member, or stalking of a child. RELIEF? battery, coercion, harassment, Discipline, including spanking, sexual assault or unlawful administered in a reasonable imprisonment. Stalking also is manner is not to be construed as covered by the Adult Abuse Act. abuse. WHAT RELIEF (§455.045) Ex Parte Order (§455.520) Ex Parte Child Order IS AVAILABLE? of Protection. of Protection. (§455.050) Full Order of (§455.523) Full Child Order of Protection. Protection. WHAT IS THE (§§455.015–455.032) Petitioning (§§455.503–455.510) Petitioning PROCEDURE court for Order of Protection. court for Child Order of Protection. FOR OBTAINING (§455.035) Obtaining Ex Parte (§455.513) Obtaining Ex Parte Order of Protection if there is an Child Order of Protection if there is RELIEF? immediate and present danger. an immediate and present danger. An Ex Parte Order of Protection is An Ex Parte Order of Protection is not always granted, but the court not always granted, but the court always should set a hearing date. always should set a hearing date. (§455.040) Hearing on Full Order (§455.516) Hearing on Full Child of Protection held within 15 days Order of Protection within 15 days after petition is filed, unless there after petition is filed, unless there is good cause for a continuance. is good cause for a continuance.

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MISSOURI ADULT ABUSE ACT (CONTINUED)

ADULT ORDERS CHILD ORDERS HOW LONG CAN (§455.040) An Order of Protection (§455.516) A Child Order of AN ORDER LAST, lasts for a minimum of 180 days Protection can last for a minimum and a maximum of one year. of 180 days and a maximum of AND IS IT It can be renewed twice; each one year. The order can be renewed RENEWABLE? renewal can last up to one year. No twice; each renewal can last up to new incident of abuse is required if one year. No new incident of abuse the order is renewed before the old is required if the order is renewed one expires. before the old one expires. WHAT HAPPENS (§455.060) The portion of the (§455.528) The portion of the IF ANOTHER Order of Protection relating to Order of Protection relating to custody, visitation, support and custody, visitation, support and COURT MAKES A maintenance is no longer valid, but maintenance is no longer valid, but CUSTODY ORDER? the prohibitions regarding abuse the prohibitions regarding abuse remain in effect. remain in effect. CAN AN ORDER (§455.060 & §455.065) Yes. (§455.528 & §455.530) Yes. BE MODIFIED? Upon the filing of a motion and a Upon the filing of a motion and a showing of changed circumstances. showing of changed circumstances. ARE PROTECTION (§455.067) Yes. The Adult Abuse Uncertain. No statutory or legal ORDERS FROM Act provides that orders from other precedent at this time. Child orders states must be given “full faith and might be covered by the federal OTHER STATES credit” in Missouri. A procedure for Violence Against Women Act. ENFORCEABLE registering foreign orders is con- Consult an attorney. IN MISSOURI? tained in the statute. However, registration does not have to occur for such orders to be enforced. WHAT HAPPENS (§455.085 & §455.090) The (§455.538 & §455.524) The IF AN ORDER IS violator can be arrested and violator can be arrested and prosecuted for a crime. Arrestable prosecuted for a crime. Arrestable VIOLATED? violations of the terms and condi- violations of the terms and condi- tions of a protection order include tions of a protection order include abuse, stalking, disregard of child abuse, child custody and entrance custody provisions, communication upon the premises of the victim’s initiated by the respondent, or dwelling unit. entrance upon the premises of the A contempt of court action can be petitioner’s dwelling unit. brought in the issuing court and the If the violation involves the failure to violator can be held in contempt surrender custody of a minor child of court. (This sometimes results in to the person to whom custody is a fine and can include jail time.) awarded, the violator must be If the violation involves failure to arrested and the child turned over surrender custody of a minor child to the custodial parent. to the person to whom custody is A contempt of court action can be awarded, the violator must be brought in the issuing court and the arrested and the child turned over violator can be held in contempt to the custodial parent. of court. (This sometimes results in The court may schedule compliance a fine and can include jail time.) review hearings to monitor the The court may schedule compliance respondent’s compliance with the review hearings to monitor the order, whether or not there has respondent’s compliance with the been a violation. order, whether or not there has been a violation.

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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ASSAULT CRIMES

The Missouri General Assembly in 2000 established separate crimes for domestic assault.These new categories of assaults acknowledge elements of power and control, and they include enhanced penalties for prior or persistent offenders. FIRST-DEGREE DOMESTIC ASSAULT (SECTIONS 565.063, 565.072 RSMo) ◗ Definition ◗ Punishment A person commits the crime of domestic assault in the Domestic assault in the first degree is a Class B first degree if he or she attempts to kill or knowingly Felony, unless the offender inflicts serious physical causes or attempts to cause serious physical injury injury on the victim, in which case it is a Class A to a family or household member or an adult who is Felony. or has been in a continuing social relationship of a Prior offender (1 prior offense within 5 years): romantic or intimate nature with the actor, as defined Class A Felony; no probation or parole if serious in section 455.010, RSMo. injury inflicted. Persistent offender (2+ previous offenses within 10 years): Class A Felony; no probation or parole. SECOND-DEGREE DOMESTIC ASSAULT (SECTIONS 565.063, 565.073 RSMo) ◗ Definition ◗ Punishment A person commits the crime of domestic assault in the Domestic assault in the second degree is a Class C second degree if the act involves a family or household Felony. member or or an adult who is or has been in a contin- Prior offender (1 prior offense within 5 years): uing social relationship of a romantic or intimate Class B Felony. nature with the actor, as defined in section 455.010, Persistent offender (2+ previous offenses within RSMo, and he or she attempts to cause or knowingly 10 years): Class A Felony. causes physical injury by any means, including use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, or by chok- ing or strangulation; or recklessly causes serious physical injury; or recklessly causes physical injury with a deadly weapon. THIRD-DEGREE DOMESTIC ASSAULT (SECTION 565.074, RSMo) ◗ Definition ◗ Punishment A person commits the crime of domestic assault in the Domestic assault in the third degree is a Class A third degree if the act involves a family or household mem- Misdemeanor. ber or an adult who is or has been in a continuing social Persistent offender (2+ previous offenses within relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the actor, 10 years): Class D Felony.The offenses may be as defined in section 455.010, RSMo, and he or she against the same family or household member or attempts to cause or recklessly causes physical injury; or against a different family or household member. with criminal negligence causes physical injury by means of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument; or places the victim in apprehension of immediate physical injury by DEFINITIONS any means; or recklessly engages in conduct which creates a grave risk of death or serious physical injury to the Class A Felony 10-30 years or life imprisonment victim; or knowingly causes physical contact knowing the Class B Felony 5-15 years imprisonment other person will regard the contact as offensive; or knowingly attempts to cause or causes the isolation of such Class C Felony 7 years imprisonment or less family or household member by unreasonably and sub- Class D Felony 4 years imprisonment or less stantially restricting or limiting such family or household Class A Misdemeanor A term of imprisonment not to member’s access to other persons, telecommunication exceed 1 year devices or transportation for the purpose of isolation.

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 38 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

COLLABORATION: EXPANDING SERVICES WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS

orking collectively provides opportunities to secure results we are more Wlikely to achieve together than alone. These joint efforts, which are commonly known as collaborations, demand relating to and working with one another in innovative ways. In the context of addressing domestic violence, it is essential to bring together diverse service providers and community members, meld their resources, and stretch their minds to embrace new ideas and strategies. For the sake of justice and human rights, communities have an interest and obligation to end domestic violence. The health, economic and social costs of domestic violence warrant atten- PARTNERSHIPS tion as well. Living in an atmosphere dominated by domestic violence harms children and KEY A key element to the success adults. Every community owes POINT of addressing domestic these citizens respect and com- violence is the existence petent services that provide of available resources. safety and restore their well- Domestic violence initiatives being and sense of security. in any community require Dozens of communities collaboration with other throughout Missouri are already service providers and thereby effectively responding to domes- offer opportunities to create tic violence. Known as coordi- and sustain new ways of nated community responses, working together. these efforts are often formed and maintained by individuals and organizations that most frequently serve women who have been battered. Groups of concerned civic lead- ers, law enforcement and justice system officials, social service and health care providers, educators, and clergy can have a significant effect upon their communities when they unite for a common purpose. Some groups meet formally on a regular basis; others have an informal structure that relies upon regular and hon- est communication among the participants. Collaboration is a process that gets people to work together in new ways. To most effectively collaborate, each community partner needs to know what resources partner agencies have to offer, how the referral and networking con- nections should be structured, and what services they can expect to be offered to

9/06 A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING the nature and dynamics of domestic violence 39 the population of women and children all partners are striving to NOTEWORTHY serve. To facilitate a cooperative alliance with domestic violence advocates, it is important to know something about the work they do and how they can assist survivors and their children by provid- Advocates ing support and safety. emphasize confidentiality DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROGRAM SERVICES Confidentiality is a Domestic violence programs provide a range of services: fundamental necessity ◗ when assisting victims Hotline. Crisis intervention, information and referrals provided 24 of domestic violence. hours a day, seven days a week on a telephone line answered by qualified, trained staff or volunteers. Program advocates are bound by strict state ◗ Crisis intervention. Interactions and activities performed by tele- and federal guidelines phone or in person by qualified, trained staff or volunteers with an regarding the release individual in crisis to stabilize emotions, clarify issues and provide of information. These support and assistance to help explore options for resolution of the restrictions sometimes individual’s self-defined crisis and needs. might appear to be a barrier to collaboration. ◗ Shelter. Emergency housing and related support services provided You should understand in a safe, protective environment for adult individuals and their chil- that domestic violence dren who have been victimized by domestic violence. advocates will not ◗ Transitional housing. Non-emergency housing for a length of stay acknowledge a person’s of more than six months that is free or low-cost subsidized and presence or participa- directly available through the program. tion in their program without a written release ◗ Support groups. Interactive group sessions that may be non- of information from the directed, topic-oriented or informational and educational that are victim. Keep in mind facilitated by a qualified, trained staff member or volunteer. that domestic violence ◗ advocates are bound Services for children. Structured programs that include by state law (Section information, activities, support and assistance provided to children. 455.220, RSMo) and ◗ Professional therapy. Individual or group therapy delivered by an their programs’ confi- individual who is in compliance with state licensure rules and regu- dentiality requirements. lations pertaining to a psychologist, counselor or social worker and A domestic violence advocate’s insistence on who has specific training in addressing domestic violence. written releases is a ◗ Ongoing advocacy. Tangible, goal-directed interactions, advocacy and function of safety and assistance provided to aid a survivor in obtaining needed services self-direction for women and developing short- and long-term resource and safety plans. and their children. ◗ Court advocacy. Provision of information, support, assistance, In addition, state law accompaniment and intervention with any aspect of the civil gives domestic violence or criminal legal system on behalf of a service recipient. shelter staff members and volunteers certain It is important to understand that shelters and other domestic legal protections from being forced to testify violence programs will not always be able to accommodate a about a program woman and her children. Shelters are sometimes filled to capacity. participant unless Sometimes, after an in-depth interview and an assessment of alter- that individual waives her confidentiality natives, a domestic violence program advocate might not admit protections (Section someone to the shelter, might not encourage getting an Order of 455.220, RSMo). This law was upheld in State Protection, or might not support your sense of urgency that she ex rel. Hope House leave. Ultimately, all decisions regarding courses of action are up to (2004). the woman to make. She is the expert on her own life. MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 40 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

These books and Web sites are recommended to help increase your understanding of domestic violence.

BOOKS

◗ Bancroft, L., & Silverman, J. (2002). Batterer as parent: Addressing the impact of domestic violence on family dynamics. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. The authors’ research creates a coherent argument as to why common characteristics of batterers affect their ability to parent appropriately. ◗ Bancroft, L. (1993). Why does he do that?: Inside the minds of angry and controlling men. New York: G.P.Putnam’s Sons. Women in abusive relationships and those who help them tell themselves these things every day. Now they can see inside the minds of angry and controlling men as Bancroft illustrates ten abuser personality types he has seen in his career. ◗ Davies, J., Lyon, E., & Monti-Catania, D. (1998). Safety planning with battered women: Complex lives/difficult choices. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. This book introduces the“woman-defined” advocacy model, which is designed to bridge the gap that sometimes occurs between the perspective of a woman victimized by domestic violence and the perception of an advocate. ◗ Evans, P.(1992). The verbally abusive relationship: How to recognize it and how to respond. Holbrook, MA: Bob Adams. This book provides validation and understanding of verbal abuse as well as providing valuable insight and recommendations to service providers and those seeking support. ◗ Fortune, M. (1995). Keeping the faith: Guidance for Christian women facing abuse. San Francisco: HarperCollins. Rev. Fortune provides a concise response to common religious questions and concerns. ◗ Herman, J. L. (1992). Trauma and recovery. New York: HarperCollins. Herman is well known for this work. It contains good information for anyone who has suffered trauma and for anyone working with people who have suffered trauma. ◗ Island, D., & Letellier, P.(1991). Men who beat the men who love them: Battered gay men and domestic violence. Binghamton, NY: Harrington Park. This book challenges many assumptions about relationships within the gay community and is a unique work among the volumes of domestic violence literature. ◗ Jayne, P.(2000). Ditch that jerk: Dealing with men who control and hurt women. Alameda, CA: Hunter House. If you know your husband or boyfriend is a good man, then this book isn’t for you. But if you’re not so sure, this book will help you assess whether your partner could be controlling or abusive—and whether he’ll ever change. ◗ Jones, A. (1995). Next time she’ll be dead: Battering and how to stop it. New York: Fawcett Columbine. This powerful book is one of the most critically acclaimed and widely distributed works about women who have been battered. It reveals the ways that society encourages violence against women. ◗ Jones, A., & Schecter, S. (1992). When love goes wrong: What to do when you can’t do anything right. New York: HarperCollins. This book explains in detail what control looks like in a relationship and offers strategies for women with controlling partners. ◗ NiCarthy, G. (2004). Getting free: You can end abuse and take back your life. Seattle: Seal. Since its original publication in 1982, this book has been an important resource on domestic violence.

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RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (CONTINUED)

◗ Schecter, S. (1982). Women and male violence: The visions and struggles of the battered women’s movement. Boston: Southend. This well-known publication takes an in-depth look at battering and the social movement against it. It describes not only the experiences of victims, but the powerful movement that demands an end to violence against women and permanent changes in the condi- tions of women’s lives. ◗ Wilson, K. (2005). When violence begins at home: A comprehensive guide to understanding and ending domestic violence. Almeda, CA: Hunter House. This extensive reference provides information on everything from indicators of an abusive relationship and advice on leaving an abusive partner to anti- burnout tips for advocates and current trends in domestic violence legislation. ◗ White, E. (1994). Chain, chain, change: For black women dealing with physical and emotional abuse. Seattle: Seal. This book examines the influences of racism and sexism in abusive relationships. ◗ Winer, M., & Ray, K. (1996). Collaboration handbook: Creating, sustaining, and enjoying the journey. St. Paul, MN: Amherst H. Wilder Foundation. This workbook has stimulating insights into ways that groups can work together to end violence against women.

WEB SITES

STATE ◗ Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, www.mocadsv.org

NATIONAL/OTHER ◗ The Battered Women’s Justice Project, www.bwjp.org ◗ The Domestic Abuse Intervention Project, www.duluth-model.org ◗ Faith Trust Institute, www.faithtrustinstitute.org ◗ Family Violence Prevention Fund, www.endabuse.org ◗ Minnesota Center Against Violence and Abuse, www.mincava.umn.edu ◗ National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, www.ncadv.org ◗ National Domestic Violence Hotline, www.ndvh.org ◗ National Electronic Network on Violence Against Women (VAWnet), www.vawnet.org ◗ National Network to End Domestic Violence, www.nnedv.org ◗ National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, www.nrcdv.org ◗ National Stalking Resource Center, www.ncvc.org/src ◗ U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention Family and Intimate Violence Prevention Team, www.cdc.gov/ncipc/dvp/dvp.htm ◗ U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics, www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs

MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence A FRAMEWORK 42 the nature and dynamics of domestic violence FOR UNDERSTANDING

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES (CONTINUED)

The videos and tools listed are especially well suited for community education presentations or staff and volunteer training.

VIDEOS

◗ Defending our lives. (1994). Cambridge Documentary Films. Contact: (617) 484-3993. This Academy Award-winning documentary exposes the magnitude and severity of domestic violence in the United States. The devastating accounts by the women featured in this film reveal the failure of the criminal justice system—and our society as a whole—to protect victims of domestic violence. ◗ Breaking the silence: Children’s stories. (2005). Connecticut Public Broadcasting. Contact: www.cptv.org. This powerful documentary examines the impact of domestic violence on children and how some family courts are failing to protect women who have been battered and their children. ◗ City of shelter: A coordinated community response to domestic violence. (2000). Global Village Communications. Contact: (937) 848-6199. An 11-part, video-based training series for professionals, these videos can be used to launch productive training and discussion sessions. Your procedures and opinions might vary from those presented, but a coordinated community response starts with communication—often soul-searching communication—between diverse, and sometimes divergent, members of the community. Seventy-one professionals in the fields of criminal justice, health care and victim advocacy served as consultants and content contributors for the series. ◗ Safe: Inside a battered woman’s shelter. (2000). Intermedia. Contact: (800) 553-8336 or www.intermedia-inc.com. This video tells the story of three women who, having left abusive partners, learn to take their first steps on this new path, adjust to shelter life, and deal with their problems and those of their children. Each of the women develops her own coping mechanisms, has a different timetable and different ways of rebuilding her life.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION TOOLS

◗ In her shoes. Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Contact: (306) 586-1022 or www.wcadsv.org. This is an interactive exercise based on the real-life successes and struggles of women who have been battered. The simulation illustrates how all aspects of a community have a role in ending violence against women.

◗ In her shoes: The economic justice edition. Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Contact: (306) 586-1022 or www.wcadsv.org. Similar to the original edition, this expanded version illustrates the additional struggles women face when they are poor as well as providing the abusers’ perspective. ◗ Pence, E. (1987). In our best interest: A process for personal and social change. Duluth, MN: Minnesota Program Development. This is an essential resource for anyone who works with women who have been battered. In Our Best Interest clearly explains how to teach critical thinking skills, offers topics for support groups and provides exercises to help women understand their relationship to the world and global attitudes that condone violence against women.

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NOTEWORTHY THE MISSION Thanks to those AND PURPOSE who contributed to this publication OF MCADSV The Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence gratefully acknowl- edges the contribu- he Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence tions of those whose material has been Tis the membership organization for providers of domestic and adapted with permis- sexual violence prevention and intervention services in the state sion and included in of Missouri. Founded in 1980, MCADSV has more than 100 this publication: ◗ The Rhode Island member programs providing services to victims of domestic and Coalition Against sexual violence. Since its beginning more than two decades ago, Domestic Violence, MCADSV has been working to ensure there is someone to talk to, publishers of Creating a safe environment someplace to go and someone to help women who have been bat- for your clients: tered and their children. In 2006, the Coalition formally Understanding the expanded its mission to also address the needs of women and dynamics of domestic violence, 1997. their children victimized by sexual violence, dating violence ◗ Jody Raphael of the and stalking. MCADSV is the state’s oldest and sole grassroots Taylor Institute and organization of community-based programs working to end Richard Tolman of the violence against women and their children. To further these University of Michigan for their report Trapped aims, MCADSV provides the following services to its member by poverty, trapped by programs and the communities they serve: abuse: New evidence documenting the rela- EDUCATION tionship between ◗ domestic violence and MCADSV educates the general public about domestic violence, welfare, 1997. sexual violence, dating violence and stalking; trains profession- ◗ als; and advocates public policy to prevent and alleviate vio- Susan Schechter and Anne L. Ganley, lence against women and their children. Domestic violence: A national curriculum for ASSISTANCE family preservation ◗ MCADSV provides technical assistance, training and support to practitioners, published members and related communities of service providers. by the Family Violence Prevention Fund, 1995. ALLIANCE ◗ MCADSV provides opportunities for communication among those working in the movement to end violence against women and their children. RESEARCH ◗ MCADSV researches the extent of domestic violence, sexual violence, dating violence and stalking to more effectively reduce its impact and occurrence in the lives of Missouri’s women and their children. MCadsV| the missouri coalition against domestic and sexual violence the missouriicoaalition individual membership MC againSst V domestic & sexua application violence

MCADSV Individual Members receive: Please join w Free statewide and regional trainings. our effort w Technical support and training provided by MCADSV staff. w Public policy advocate present at state and national level. to make w Free MCADSV publications and manuals. Missouri safer w Access to the MCADSV Resource Lending Library. w Regular updates on state and federal legislation relating to for women. violence against women. w Access to MCADSV listservs. w Discounts on Annual Conference fees. [ ] Advocate Membership Individuals who are employed by a member program of MCADSV. ($35 annually) [ ] Supportive Membership Individuals who support the mission and efforts of MCADSV. ($45 annually) [ ] Student Membership Full-time students who support the mission and efforts of MCADSV. ($25 annually) The above membership rates apply through December 2008. For more information, contact MCADSV.

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Signature ______Date ______Memberships available for organizations: Send your application to: C 217 Oscar Drive, Suite A Those interested in an organizational or affiliate membership should request Jefferson City, a supplemental membership packet from MCADSV. Missouri 65101 (573) 634-4161 (573) 636-3728 Fax [email protected] www.mocadsv.org